Valerie

Helldorados – Just Rock

Hardcore rock and roll that spells out what it means to have balls. Okay, so maybe I'm just a sucker for bands that don't take themselves too seriously, but still make fun, kickin' music. Helldorados is definitely this type of band, hence, falling for them is not very difficult. Just Rock is a compilation of 11 tracks that are as rock and roll as can be. It's a mix of late 80s glam rock, with the chant vocals, and guitar licks. Although it might not be "spectacular," the album is good fun to listen to especially if you want to pass away the time.

Pixen – free graphic editing software for Mac

There's no denying that Mac users have their work cut out for them when it comes to looking for free or open source software and programs that they can use for their Macbooks. However, with Pixen available, they don't to worry much longer. Pixen is a fully free graphics editor software that you can use for your Mac. Most people know that there are a lot of reliable graphics software out there for Windows and other systems but hardly for Mac. This software is especially suited for pixel artists, however, it does work perfectly with all types of artists.

Bi-Polar Bear – Today I Found Happy

Hip hop psychedelia with great rap vocals to match. With a witty name like Bi-Polar Bear featuring an apparently heartbroken blue bear on the disc, it's hard not to even try listening to this album. Self described as someone who sounds like Atmosphere, the duo, known before as "Strange Passengers" have renamed themselves as Bi-Polar Bear after their second reunion. All 11 tracks reflect a slight old school flavor with enough of a twist to make it their own. Of course, be warned there are explicit lyrics to this album, so if it's not your trip, then steer clear. Otherwise, feel free to indulge.

Pingus – open source Lemmings-like game

Ever got addicted to Lemmings when you were younger? Now, you can get the same game play only this time, you have Penguins to deal with. Pingus is a very entertaining open source game designed initially as a free Lemmings clone. However, throughout the years, the game has grown and now features over 22 levels, original artwork, new actions and multiplayer options. Basically, just like Lemmings, your main goal is to guide a group of Penguins from point A to point B. To make it challenging, there will be tons of obstacles preventing you from doing so. It's your job to reign the penguins in, so to speak, and make them follow your instructions.

Cartel – The Lost Tracks

Presenting talented MC slash Producer...yep, here's one you missed. Seems like every MC out there has held this title, but few who make the jump from producer to MC actually have what it takes. But trust me, you'll be glad that Cartel's Lost Tracks didn't remain lost for good. One half of the duo making up Homegrown Records, this isn't Cartel's first foray into releasing an album. Prepare for Glory was his first release followed by this true underground hip hop gem, The Lost Tracks. Cartel certainly proves naysayers wrong, being a producer/MC is possible especially if you have talent like this guy.

Paul Lisak & After The Ice – It Happens All the Time

Mashing old school rock with today's synth pop rock, tied with engaging vocals to match. Paul Lisak and After the Ice is definitely a band that's worth waiting for. Channeling both mainstream and indie at the same time, they reach a niche that few ever make. Their mix of psychedelia and indie rock along with easily likable rhythms and beats makes them an easy band to like. It Happens All the Time is the band's debut EP and comprises 4 solid tracks that embody what the band is capable of.

Closer at the Start by Jonathan Dimmel – Simple and Clean

Simple, simple, simple, but it doesn't mean it's not good. Easy listening pop rock is what best describes Jonathan Dimmel's music. There are times when we need simple and straightforward songs to make us feel good and Closer at the Start is the best candidate if you want something not so loud, not too quiet and not too sappy. According to Dimmel, the songs are "strait(sic) from the heart. I was over trying to make something commercial, this is my first attempt at just letting what comes out happen." Perhaps he should have tried this method sooner.

Warzone 2100 – open source real time strategy game

Want to play something that's more challenging than the usual shoot and kill? Warzone 2100 offers you a real time strategy and tactics game designed to make you think and destroy at the same time. Warzone 2100 was published by Eidos Interactive and developed by Pumpkin Studios. Originally, the game was released on a commercial status but by December 2004, much of the source code for the game was tagged with a GNU. Today, the title is a full open source game that you can download and enjoy right at the comfort of your own home. Take your wit and skills to help rebuild a new civilization for mankind or simply have fun blasting the enemy from beyond the gates.